National Blue Ribbon Schools Program

Like the rest of the world, the Prospect community was rocked by the introduction of COVID-19. Responsiveness has allowed Prospect to weather the challenges of educating children during this historic period, while maintaining strong relationships with students and families and positively impacting academic growth. Its learning models not only worked well for all stakeholders but also led to the highest NWEA MAP scores District 181 has ever seen.

In immediate response to the switch to remote learning in spring 2020, iPads, hot spots, and meals were delivered to families to ensure learning could continue to thrive in the midst of the unknown. Through phone calls, emails, and home visits, teachers and staff reached out to ensure that families received the technological, educational, and emotional support necessary.

With the introduction of a hybrid model in fall 2020, shifts were again necessary to instructional practices due to scheduling; limitations on shared furniture, equipment, and materials; and social distancing constraints. District SACs identified priority standards for each grade level, created unique pacing guides, and created digital common assessments.

The Social-Emotional Learning for Academic Success (SELAS) committee at Prospect was equally critical during this period. Each day the principal sent announcements and birthday celebrations to students. Prospect staff and PTO provided virtual communication and engaging school-wide activities, including show and tell, lunch with the teacher, and mystery readers.

In spite of the pandemic, Prospect's strong sense of community and high level of connectivity and engagement with students and families continued to nurture the school community.